Choosing the right car diagnostic tool can be confusing, especially when you’re faced with options like Torque Pro and dedicated handheld car scanners. As someone who’s used both Torque Pro and a Cen-Tech 60794 scanner from Harbor Freight, I can share my experience to help you decide which might be better for your needs.
For real-time monitoring and on-the-go data, Torque Pro has been a great companion. What I appreciate most is its ability to run in the background, even alongside a navigation app. Although you can’t view both apps simultaneously on your screen, switching between them is quick, and Torque Pro keeps logging data. The key to a smooth experience with Torque Pro is using a reliable OBDII adapter. A poor quality adapter can lead to connection issues, which can be frustrating.
On the other hand, for specific diagnostic tasks, especially when dealing with warning lights, a standalone scanner like the Cen-Tech 60794 comes in handy. I initially bought this particular Harbor Freight scanner hoping to diagnose ABS issues on my older Ford Explorer, which was notorious for wheel bearing problems. Unfortunately, despite claims of compatibility, it couldn’t read the ABS protocol on that vehicle.
However, the Cen-Tech scanner proved its worth when my newer Voyager threw a Check Engine Light (CEL) shortly after I purchased it. The 60794 quickly read the trouble code, allowing me to look up its meaning online. It turned out to be a minor, transient issue related to the fan clutch speed, and thankfully, it hasn’t reappeared in the two years since. This scanner also has a feature to record and playback drive information, though in my experience, the practical value of this feature has been limited.
While my Cen-Tech 60794 couldn’t access ABS data on my Explorer (and apparently not on the Voyager either), it handles most other diagnostic tasks effectively. Considering its price point, and features like a color display, it’s a solid tool for general car diagnostics. It may not compete with professional-grade scanners like Tech II or high-end Snap-On models, but it gets the job done for most DIYers.
So, how do I use them in practice? If I want to keep an eye on my transmission temperature while driving, Torque Pro is my go-to. Its real-time data display is perfect for monitoring specific parameters. But when I need to investigate a warning light or search for pending codes, I reach for the Cen-Tech scanner. Each tool serves a distinct purpose, and in my opinion, both Torque Pro and a dedicated car scanner have their place in a car owner’s toolkit.
